CONGO GORILLA TREKKING – CONGO GORILLA SAFARIS & TOURS
Congo gorilla trekking/gorilla safaris & tours offer adventure travelers an unforgettable chance to explore Africa’s wild heart.
Take a gorilla trek through Virunga, Odzala, and Kahuzi-Biega National Parks to encounter threatened mountain gorillas and both eastern and western lowland gorillas in their natural jungle habitat.
Your journey may include hiking active volcanoes like Mount Nyiragongo (an active volcano), visiting the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage, and witnessing Congo’s rich wildlife and ecosystems.
With custom tours that blend thrills, cultural insights, and rare wildlife encounters, Congo stands out as a top gorilla trekking destination.
Why Choose a Congo Gorilla Safari?
Gorilla trekking is a one-of-a-kind and budget-friendly adventure with gorilla trek permits that cost $400 compared to $800 in Uganda and $1,500 in Rwanda.
The Congo is the only place on earth where you can trek to see mountain gorillas and eastern and western lowland gorillas in the wild in Congo game parks like Virunga, Kahuzi-Biega, or Odzala National Park, as well as hike near active volcanoes, see rare wildlife, experience local cultures, and support conservation efforts in one journey.
This is what Congo gorilla safaris & tours entail!
Top Congo Gorilla Safari Destinations in The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Congo (ROC) | Where Can I See Gorillas in Congo?
For travelers seeking an immersive Congo gorilla safari experience, they need to visit these destinations below.
Virunga National Park—Mountain Gorilla Trekking in DR Congo
Virunga National Park (Albert National Park), located in eastern DRC near Rwanda and Uganda, is Africa’s oldest national park and a World Heritage Site (UNESCO) worth visiting on Congo safaris.
Established in 1925 to protect the threatened mountain gorillas, Virunga National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and most ecologically important protected areas.
Spanning 7,800 square kilometers, it was designated a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1979 due to its rich biodiversity, including the highest concentration of bird, mammal, and reptile species of any African park.
Home to over 200 mountain gorillas—the largest population in the DRC—Virunga also safeguards the cultural heritage of the indigenous Twa community.
It’s famous for mountain gorilla trekking, offering up-close encounters with several habituated gorilla families like Kabirizi, Humba, and Bageni gorilla group.
Gorilla trek permits here cost around $400 per person and can be booked directly with the park or through local tour operators, allowing only one hour with the mountain gorillas once they have been encountered during a trek, making it a budget-friendly option compared to Rwanda.
Beyond gorilla treks, Virunga boasts active mountains/volcanoes like Mount Nyiragongo (home to the largest lava lake in the world), dense rainforests, and incredible biodiversity.
This iconic destination delivers a once-in-a-lifetime Congo gorilla tour experience for adventure travelers seeking raw, wild nature and mountain gorillas/Congo gorillas.
It is worth noting that the critically threatened mountain gorillas found in Virunga National Park in DR Congo can also be seen in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Parks, as well as Volcanoes National Park, making these three countries the only places in the world where you can encounter these rare primates on guided gorilla trekking tours.
Despite ongoing political instability that threatens its conservation efforts, dedicated park rangers continue to risk their lives through anti-poaching initiatives.
Additionally, despite low tourism in the DRC due to ongoing safety concerns, Virunga National Park has remained largely secure, with no attacks on tourists reported within the park in the past 20 years.
Goma, the nearest city, is generally considered safe for visitors. While a 2018 incident involved the brief kidnapping of two British tourists near the park, they were unharmed and safely released.
The park remains a vital ecological stronghold for the East and Central African region.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park—Grauer’s Gorilla Tours in DR Congo
Tucked near Bukavu by Lake Kivu in DRC, Kahuzi-Biega National Park is the top place for tracking eastern lowland gorilla species—the world’s largest gorilla species during Congo safaris/Congo gorilla excursions.
This World Heritage Site (UNESCO) offers guided treks to visit habituated families like Chimanuka and Mpungwe in lush montane forests.
Lowland gorilla trekking here is less crowded than in other national parks and showcases rare wildlife, including chimpanzees, forest hogs, and countless bird species.
It’s the only place globally to see Grauer’s gorillas in their natural habitat, making it a unique part of Congo gorilla safaris. The park also features scenic waterfalls, mountains, and rich biodiversity.
Odzala-Kokoua National Park—Western Lowland Gorillas in the Republic of Congo
In the remote rainforests of the Republic of Congo (RoC), Odzala-Kokoua National Park offers unforgettable gorilla treks to see western gorillas (lowland) during Congo safaris.
With expert guides, visitors can walk through forest clearings (bais) and observe gorilla families in their natural setting.
This park is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and features rich ecosystems, unique bird species, and rare mammals.
Odzala provides intimate, low-impact wildlife experiences far from the tourist crowds.
It’s a must for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path Congo gorilla tracking tours.
Other great gorilla spots in RoC include Lesio-Louna and Nouabalé-Ndoki Parks, all ideal for immersive Congo wildlife safaris.
Visit any of these gorilla trekking destinations today for immersive safari experiences!
Fun Safari Activities Done on Congo Gorilla Safaris | What to Do During a Gorilla Tour in Congo?
The three main gorilla trekking safari excursions done during gorilla Congo tours include.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Virunga National Park
Mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga National Park is one of the most popular tourism activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo and is the icing on the cake of Congo gorilla safaris.
Located in eastern DRC, this UNESCO-listed park is home to rare, endangered mountain gorillas.
Gorilla treks/tracking gorillas start from the Park Headquarters and involve a guided hike through lush tropical rainforests, leading to close-up encounters with habituated gorilla families like Kabirizi and Bageni.
It is important to know that only a maximum of eight individuals are allowed per trekking group in Virunga National Park to reduce the risk of disease transmission to the gorillas.
With a gorilla permit costing around $400, visitors spend one magical hour observing these primates in their habitat.
This activity rivals experiences in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi and Mgahinga Parks, but at a fraction of the price.
Eastern Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Kahuzi-Biega National Park
For those seeking the largest gorilla species on Earth, head to Kahuzi-Biega National Park in DR Congo.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the only place to see eastern lowland gorilla species (Grauer’s gorillas) in the wild.
Lowland gorilla treks last 30 minutes to 6 hours, depending on location, guided by armed rangers through thick rainforests near Lake Kivu.
Visitors track habituated families like Chimanuka and Mpungwe, then spend one hour watching their social interactions.
A lowland gorilla trekking permit costs around $400. Less touristy than mountain gorilla trekking, this offers a quieter, deeply immersive gorilla safari experience in Congo’s national parks.
Western Lowland Gorilla Trekking in Odzala-Kokoua National Park
In the Republic of the Congo, Odzala-Kokoua National Park offers a raw, adventurous trek to see western lowland gorillas during Congo safaris.
Unlike DR Congo’s experiences, this safari takes place in remote rainforest terrain with muddy trails, river crossings, and encounters with unique wildlife species like elephants and rare bird species.
Guided gorilla treks can last 2 to 7 hours and involve quietly following gorilla groups through bai clearings.
These gorillas are smaller but faster than their eastern cousins, and sightings feel truly wild.
For adventure travellers seeking untamed nature, gorilla trekking in Congo’s Odzala promises one of Africa’s most thrilling wildlife safaris/Congo safaris.
What Tourists Should Expect on A Gorilla Trekking Safari Excursion in Congo?
A gorilla trekking excursion in Congo is unlike any other wildlife adventure in Africa. It offers a rare chance to witness endangered mountain gorillas, eastern lowland gorillas, and western lowland gorillas in their habitat.
Trekking through the tropical rain forests of Virunga National Park, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, or Odzala-Kokoua National Park, travelers on Congo gorilla tours get to explore one of the last strongholds of these incredible wild animals.
Whether you are visiting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or the Republic of the Congo (ROC), expect physical challenge, deep immersion, and a life-changing connection with Africa’s most iconic endangered gorillas.
Below are the additional things to expect.
Age Limit for Gorilla Trekking in Congo
For all gorilla trekking tours in Congo, the minimum age requirement is 15 years. This is enforced by ICCN and national park authorities for the safety of both humans and gorillas. And the reasons include.
- Physical Demands: Trekking involves steep, muddy trails and long hikes.
- Health Risks: Children are more likely to carry transmissible human illnesses that could harm Congo gorillas.
- Safety Concerns: Younger visitors may struggle with ranger instructions or get frightened during close gorilla encounters, for example, if a dominant silverback charges.
There is no maximum age limit, but older travelers are encouraged to consult with Congo safari tour operators about fitness levels and hiring porters for support.
These limitations also apply to other gorilla parks like Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Uganda’s Bwindi & Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks.
Duration Of a Gorilla Trek in Congo
The duration of your gorilla trekking safari in Congo varies depending on the habituated gorilla group’s location, terrain, and weather conditions. These are the time intervals to expect:
- Virunga National Park: 1 to 6 hours of mountain gorilla trekking
- Kahuzi-Biega National Park: 1 to 4 hours to find eastern gorillas (Grauer’s gorillas)
- Odzala National Park: 2 to 7 hours of trekking for western gorillas
- Time with Gorillas: You are allowed 1 hour to observe and photograph the gorillas from a 7-meter distance. Including briefing and debriefing, the full experience can last 4–7 hours.
Congo Landscape and Physical Fitness—How Hard Is the Gorilla Hike/Trek?
A gorilla trekking experience in Congo requires moderate to high physical fitness. Trails often pass through thick forests (impenetrable), hilly terrain, and muddy slopes, especially during the rainy season. So, expect:
- Climbing through high-altitude forests
- Navigating dense tropical vegetation
- Hot and humid weather conditions
- Slippery slopes and steep climbs
Use of hiking boots, walking sticks, and porters is highly recommended. Guides will pace the trek based on group ability, but being physically fit will greatly improve your experience and safety.
Rules And Regulations for A Congo Gorilla Trek
Strict rules are enforced during all gorilla tracking tours in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring national parks to ensure safety and conservation. These are similar to rules followed in Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi, and Mgahinga National Parks.
Before the Trek
- Minimum age: 15 years
- Required documents: Gorilla permit + Yellow Fever vaccination
- Mandatory briefing: Led by rangers at the park headquarters
- Health screening: No sick participants allowed
During the Trek
- Keep a 7-meter distance from the gorillas
- No flash photography when taking pictures of gorillas
- No eating, smoking, or drinking near the gorillas
- Speak in whispers; do not make sudden movements or loud noises
- Stay calm if a silverback gorilla charges—follow the ranger’s lead
Hygiene and Conservation
- Sanitize hands before entering gorilla areas
- Wear a mask or cover your nose/mouth when sneezing or coughing
- Do not litter or leave food wrappers
- Always follow instructions from guides and rangers
- Bury human waste or faeces properly
Note: Breaking these rules may lead to your trek being terminated and may affect future access to Congo gorilla trek permits for others.
Planning And Booking Gorilla Trek Permits in Congo
To join a gorilla trek in Congo, you must book a gorilla permit in advance. These permits are limited daily and in high demand, especially during the dry season.
- Issued by Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega National Park authorities or licensed tour operators
- Cost: Around USD 400, depending on the park and season
- Inclusions: 1 hour with a gorilla family, ranger guide, entry fee, and trekking support
Book 3–6 months in advance, ideally during the dry seasons: June–September and December–February, for the best trekking conditions.
Using a trusted Congo gorilla safari company ensures you’ll have seamless logistics, transport, accommodation, and updated park information—especially for last-minute changes like Virunga National Park closures.
Other Exciting Activities to Do During a Congo Gorilla Safari
Beyond gorilla treks in Congo, visitors to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Republic of the Congo (ROC) can enjoy a variety of thrilling activities across Virunga National Park, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, and Odzala-Kokoua National Park:
- Chimpanzee Trekking in Virunga (popular activity since 1987) and Kahuzi-Biega
- Mount Nyiragongo Volcano Trek to see the world’s largest lava lake
- Nature Walks & Cultural Experiences with local communities such as the Batwa pygmies, are part of Congo safari tours
- Wildlife Safaris to spot forest elephants, antelopes, and birds
- Lake Kivu Boat Cruises and Congo River tours
- Camping Safaris in Kahuzi Biega NP, tropical rainforests
- Western & Eastern Lowland Gorilla Tracking in Odzala and Kahuzi-Biega, respectively
- Birdwatching and conservation photography
- Hiking Mount Kahuzi and Biega for stunning views
- Participate in gorilla conservation research
Add depth and thrill to your Congo gorilla trekking safari with these unforgettable experiences!
Tourist Attractions Seen on Gorilla Trips in Congo
Some of the fascinating things to see during Congo gorilla excursions include.
Mountain Gorillas in Virunga National Park (DRC)
Home to around 300 mountain gorillas (major attractions), Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo is Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Track habituated gorilla families like Kabirizi on an immersive gorilla trekking tour guided by rangers. Gorilla trek permits cost $400 at the park headquarters.
These endangered mountain gorillas also live in Bwindi, Mgahinga National Park (Uganda), and Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), but Virunga offers a raw, untamed gorilla trekking experience in their true habitat.
Eastern Lowland Gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega National Park (DRC)
Kahuzi-Beiga National Park is the best place to see the rare and powerful eastern lowland species (Grauer’s gorillas), the largest gorilla species.
With about 6,800 left in the wild, spotting these endangered animals in their tropical rain forests is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The park hosts several habituated gorilla groups, offering excellent lowland gorilla tracking.
Their calm demeanor and large size make the encounter unforgettable. Kahuzi-Biega is a must for anyone seeking deeper Congo gorilla trekking in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Western Lowland Gorillas in Odzala-Kokoua National Park (Republic of Congo)
In the Republic of Congo, Odzala National Park is home to the elusive western lowland gorilla species.
Though smaller and more widespread than their mountain cousins, they thrive in dense rainforests and remote bais (clearings).
These gorillas are harder to track but offer thrilling, off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Visitors often cross rivers and trek through wetlands to find them.
Despite being lesser-known, western lowland gorilla tracking is vital for conservation and offers a deep connection to nature in the Congo Basin’s rich ecosystem.
OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO SEE ON A CONGO GORILLA SAFARI
Whether you’re tracking mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park, eastern lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega, or western lowland gorillas in Odzala, these additional attractions make your Congo gorilla trip unforgettable:
Volcanoes & Mountains
- Mount Nyiragongo—Hike to this active volcano in Virunga to witness the largest lava lake in the world.
- Mount Mikeno—Part of the Virunga Mountains, home to several gorilla groups.
- Mount Kahuzi & Mount Biega—Dormant volcanoes in Kahuzi-Biega National Park, ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
- Mount Nyamuragira—One of Africa’s most active mountains/volcanoes, often visible smoking from afar.
Wildlife & Primates
- Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage—Located in Virunga, this is the world’s only orphanage for mountain gorillas.
- Lwiro Chimpanzee Sanctuary—Near Kahuzi-Biega, it offers insights into chimpanzee trekking and rehabilitation.
- Bonobos – Found only in the Democratic Republic of Congo at Lola Ya Bonobo Sanctuary, these intelligent great apes are close relatives to humans.
- Central African Red Colobus Monkeys—Rare and found in Congo’s deep tropical rainforests.
- Olive Baboons, Okapis, and Giant Forest Hog—Unique sightings on guided wildlife safaris.
- African Forest Elephants—Smaller, elusive cousins of the savannah elephant.
Birds & Flora
- Over 300 birds across the game parks—perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Rich flora and ecosystems: from savannah grasslands to swamps, offering habitats for numerous wildlife species.
Lakes, Rivers & Forest Trails
- Lake Kivu—Enjoy boat cruises, photography, or relax with beautiful lake views.
- River Congo—The second-longest river in Africa, excellent for scenic river cruises and spotting aquatic wildlife species.
Cultural and Community Villages
- Batwa Communities—Indigenous pygmy tribes who share their music, dance, and traditions with visitors are seen on nature walks.
- Cultural experiences in both DR Congo and ROC offer insight into local lifestyles, food, and heritage.
These attractions can be seen during your gorilla trekking safari, making it a richer Congo safari experience that blends wildlife, culture, and adventure.
Top-Tier Safari Lodges and Hotels in Congo to Stay at During Gorilla Tours
Congo gorilla tours offer a range of accommodations to suit every budget.
- In Virunga National Park, options include budget-friendly Kibumba and Bukima Tented Camps, mid-range Lac Kivu Lodge, and luxury Mikeno Lodge. Trekkers climbing Mount Nyiragongo (an active volcano) can stay in summit shelters.
- Near Kahuzi-Biega National Park, choices include Orchids Safari Club, Lakeside Hotel Bukavu, Coco Lodge, and the upscale Mount Kahuzi Hotel.
- For Odzala National Park in the Republic of Congo, Ngaga, Lango, and Mboko Camps provide premium forest stays.
Most tour operators offer full packages with gorilla trek permits, guides, accommodation, and transport, making your Congo gorilla safari convenient and comfortable. Book in advance!
A Breakdown of Congo Gorilla Tour Costs
Gorilla trekking in Congo is among the most affordable options in Africa. A gorilla trekking permit costs $400 in both Virunga National Park (mountain gorillas) and Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Grauer’s gorillas), while off-season rates in Virunga drop to $200, which is half price.
- Accommodation ranges from $90 to 400 per night, depending on comfort level.
- Transportation and driver fees cost $100–200 daily.
- A Nyiragongo active volcano trek permit is $300–350.
Most Congo gorilla tours are offered as full packages that include lodging, transport, meals, and gorilla trek permits.
Consider extra costs for visas, security, and local logistics while planning your Congo safari.
How To Get to Congo for Gorilla Trekking Safari Excursions?
To get to Congo gorilla trekking destinations in DR Congo or the Republic of Congo, you fly into Goma, Bukavu, or Brazzaville with Ethiopian Airways (operates single flights each week to Goma), Kenya Airways, or RwandAir.
For travelers arriving by air at Goma Airport, the park provides private transport, while those crossing the border can use mototaxis to navigate around Goma.
From Kigali, Rwanda, it’s a 3-4 hour drive to the Goma border, then local transfers to Virunga National Park or Kahuzi-Biega National Park for mountain gorilla and Grauer’s gorilla tracking.
Overland access and border crossing from Uganda via the Bunagana border post in Kisoro town are also possible. A valid visa, passport, and Congo gorilla permits are required. Local 4WD vehicles are best for park access.
It is important to note that because travel by road to Virunga is challenging from the rest of DRC except Goma Town, many travelers to Virunga Park fly to Kigali International Airport; then from Kigali, travelers connect by road through Gisenyi town to Goma, which takes approximately 2 hours to drive from Gisenyi to Bukima, the park headquarters.
Tour operators can arrange all the Congo gorilla trekking logistics.
Best Time to Visit Congo to Track Gorillas
The best time for gorilla trekking in DRC & ROC is during the dry seasons—June to September and December to February—when trails in Virunga National Park, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, and Odzala-Kokoua National Park are more accessible.
During this period, spotting mountain gorillas, western/eastern lowland gorillas and other animal species becomes easier due to thinner vegetation and drier paths.
The rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) bring slippery trails but may offer a half-price gorilla tracking permit.
For the best gorilla trekking experience, plan your Congo gorilla safari during dry months, ensuring safer hikes, better visibility, and higher chances of close encounters with habituated gorilla families in their habitat.
Congo Gorilla Safaris Vs Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla Tours
Congo gorilla trekking offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure compared to Uganda and Rwanda.
In Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega National Park, you can trek both mountain gorillas and Grauer’s gorillas, unlike Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or Uganda’s Bwindi National Park, which only offer mountain gorilla treks.
The gorilla permits in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) are also more affordable (USD 400) compared to Rwanda (USD 1,500) & Uganda (USD 800), making it an ideal option for budget travelers.
Fewer crowds, untouched tropical rainforests, and diverse wildlife species make Congo gorilla tours an authentic experience for those seeking adventure beyond the popular routes in other African countries.
Congo Mountain Gorilla Tracking Vs Lowland Gorilla Trekking
On a Congo gorilla trek, you can experience both mountain gorilla treks in Virunga National Park and lowland gorilla tracking in Kahuzi Biega National Park.
Mountain gorilla treks let you see the mountain gorillas, while lowland gorilla trekking offers sightings of lowland gorillas (eastern and western).
Mountain gorillas live at high altitudes, requiring challenging hikes through steep terrain, while eastern lowland gorillas are found in flatter, dense forests, offering easier access and more intimate viewing.
Lowland gorillas are larger than Mountain gorillas, making them a favorite for photography.
Both gorilla trekking options let you observe a gorilla family in its habitat, but the choice depends on your fitness level and the kind of gorilla trekking experience you’re looking for in DR Congo.
Congo Gorilla Trekking Trips: What to Wear
For a successful gorilla trekking safari in Congo, you need to wear the right gear. Pack hiking boots or shoes with a good grip for muddy trails.
Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and moisture-wicking clothes to stay dry and insect-free.
A waterproof rain jacket or poncho is essential during the rainy season. Bring warm layers like a fleece or scarf for cool mornings.
Don’t forget quick-dry socks, gardening gloves for handling vegetation, and a hat.
These will keep you comfortable and prepared for your gorilla trek in the Congo’s game parks.
What To Pack for A Gorilla Trek in Congo?
When going for a gorilla trek in Congo, packing smart is crucial.
Bring a waterproof backpack with a refillable water bottle, snacks, a packed lunch, and a first aid kit.
Don’t forget your passport with visa, travel insurance, medications, sunscreen, insect repellent, and personal hygiene items.
Optional but nice to have are a camera, binoculars, a portable charger, and a map or guidebook. Bring some extra cash (in Congolese francs) for tips or souvenirs.
A walking stick, book, or reading material can also be nice to have.
Check with your Congo safari operator for park-specific gear or documentation requirements.
Best Congo Tour Operators Offering Remarkable Congo Gorilla Safari Packages
Some of the best travel agents that offer the best Congo gorilla trek safari packages are.
- Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
- Congo Gorilla Safaris and Tours
- Wild Gorilla Safaris
- Africa Safaris Tours
Most tour operators offer tailor-made safari experiences in Congo at discounted prices.
Contact a reputable tour company today and plan your next hassle-free gorilla trekking adventure!
Congo Gorilla Safaris: Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Gorilla Trekking in the Congo Safe?
Yes, gorilla trekking in Congo is safe and secure when done with licensed tour operators, experienced guides, and armed rangers. Virunga National Park (top destination for hiking the active Nyiragongo volcano and cultural tours) and Kahuzi-Biega remain secure in stable times, though conditions can change quickly.
- How Much Does It Cost to Go Gorilla Trekking in Congo?
A Congo gorilla permit costs about $400 in the dry season and $200 in the wet season. This is more affordable compared to Uganda ($800) and Rwanda ($1,500), making Congo ideal for budget gorilla trekking tours.
- Can I Combine Gorilla Trekking with Other Activities?
Yes! Many Congo safaris include volcano treks, chimpanzee trekking, nature walks, and boat rides on Lake Kivu—making your gorilla tour a complete adventure through the region’s top wildlife species and landscapes.
- What Is the Safest Country for Gorilla Trekking?
Uganda is widely regarded as the safest country for gorilla trekking, thanks to strong security and community support. It’s more stable than DRC, with cheaper gorilla permits than Rwanda.
- Is Gorilla Trekking Worth the Money?
Absolutely. Gorilla trekking offers a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter that helps protect endangered mountain gorillas and supports conservation. Despite the cost and effort, most visitors find the gorilla trekking experience deeply rewarding.
- Which Country Is Best for Gorilla Tracking?
DR Congo, a nation known for its untapped wilderness and unmatched biodiversity, is the cheapest ($400); Uganda offers a balance ($800); and Rwanda is luxury ($1,500). Virunga National Park and Kahuzi-Biega in Congo offer unique encounters with mountain gorillas and lowland gorillas, but security varies.
- How Much Is Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi?
In Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, gorilla tracking costs $800 per person. This includes park access, guides, and a one-hour visit with your assigned gorilla family in their habitat.
- Why Is Virunga National Park Closed?
Virunga National Park sometimes closes due to security threats from rebel groups. When open, it offers incredible gorilla tracking in Congo tours, but closures happen to protect visitors and park staff.
- What Happened to the Gorillas in Congo?
Though mountain gorilla populations in Congo are improving, Grauer’s gorillas are rapidly declining due to poaching, disease, and instability. Conservation efforts are ongoing in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- What Is the Best Time to See Gorillas in Bwindi?
For better weather and clear visibility, visit Bwindi National Park in Uganda (East Africa) between June and August or December and February. These dry seasons make gorilla tracking easier and increase your chances of a great wildlife safari experience.
Congo gorilla safaris offer a raw, unforgettable adventure with mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park and lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega & Odzala. Contact us today and let us plan your next Congo gorilla trip!
